National teaching award finalists announced
Two teachers from Anne Arundel County are among six state finalists
Two Anne Arundel County teachers have been announced as finalist for this year’s Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching by the Maryland State Department of Education.
Christine Baker from Four Seasons Elementary School in Gambrills and Jessica Owens from Hillsmere Elementary School in Annapolis are now two of six state finalist for the award.
“This is another example of the amazing talent, commitment, and passion that exists in classrooms across our county,” Superintendent of Schools Mark Bedell said. “These two educators are among the state’s best, and I congratulate and thank them for the positive impacts they are having on the lives of students.”
Baker has been a teacher in the district since 2004 and at Four Seasons since 2013. She teaches fourth-grade math and science and is the school’s Math Lead Teacher. Prior to her current position she taught at Ridgeway,
Nantucket, and Severna Park elementary schools. She also serves on the school’s Leadership and School Improvement teams.
“I am humbled by this recognition and share it with each student that passes through my class,” Baker said in a news release from the county. “Many of them have math stories full of anxiety and defeatism. My mission is to bring fun and joy to math by making it accessible and meaningful to all students using authentic experiences, differentiated instruction, hands-on activities and laughter.”
Owens has been a Hillsmere Elementary School teacher since 2018 and has taught the Triple E (Enhancing Elementary Excellence) curriculum at the school since that time. She previously taught in Baltimore County Public Schools.
“It is a tremendous honor to stand as a finalist for the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching, proudly representing Anne Arundel County, Hillsmere Elementary, and the Triple E program,” she said. “I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to share my passion for STEM with my students daily. Above all, I am dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment where every student feels empowered
Four Seasons Elementary School teacher Christine Baker and Hillsmere Elementary School teacher Jessica Owens have been named finalists by the Maryland State Department of Education. Baker is among three math finalists and Owens is one of three science finalists. No other Maryland School system has more than one finalist. and welcomed, reinforcing the belief that STEM is for all.”
The award aims to recognize teachers who not only have a firm grasp of the subject and content they teach but also the ability to motivate and enable students to succeed in the subject also, MSDE said in announcing the finalists.
Other finalists announced by MSDE are:
Lisa Herckner, Grasonville Elementary School (Queen Anne’s County) and Norah Macphee, Mayfield Woods Middle School (Howard County).Science: Kimberlie Grabenstein, Williamsport Elementary School (Washington County) and Kristina Powell, Maiden Choice School (Baltimore County).
“These finalists represent excellence in teaching and embody the ideals of innovation, dedication, and excellence,” Interim State Superintendent of Schools Dr. Carey M. Wright said. “Their passion for STEAM education is truly inspiring, and I congratulate them on this well-deserved honor.”
Each year, a committee of nationally recognized mathematicians, scientists, mathematics/science education researchers, district-level personnel, and classroom teachers recommends over 100 teachers to receive a PAEMST award.
Up to two teachers from mathematics or science, from each state receive the award.
Winners get a trip to Washington, D.C., where they will attend several events and professional development opportunities. They also receive a $10,000 award from the National Science Foundation, a presidential certificate, and join a group of award-winning teachers who can influence state and national STEM teaching.
It isn’t clear when the final decision will be announced.
Glen Burnie Park Elementary School math teacher Joanie Gulden was a national winner in 2022.